Panel assemblies and methods to assemble the same

ABSTRACT

A panel assembly can include a first panel having a peripheral side located between an upper and a lower surface of the first panel and a first opening. The panel assembly can also include a second panel having a second opening. An elongated insert can be coupled to the first panel, the elongated insert having a coupling side, where the first opening of the first panel can be sized and shaped to coupleably receive the elongated insert such that the coupling side is positioned proximal to the peripheral side. The panel assembly can also include a fastening insert, where the second opening of the second panel can be sized and shaped to receive the fastening insert. A fastener can be received by the fastening insert and the elongated insert, the fastener coupling the first panel to the second panel via the fastening insert and the elongated insert. Related methods for assembling the panel assembly are also provided.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This application is generally related to panel inserts and, moreparticularly, to panel insert assemblies.

Description of the Related Art

Composite panels generally provide strength and durability benefits,reduce weight, and tend to reduce maintenance costs typically associatedwith metal structures. Typical examples of composite panels can includecarbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) panels, honeycomb panels, orother panels having a composite of a resin matrix and sheets embedded inthe matrix. While composite panels provide benefits, assemblingcomposite panels has been problematic. For example, typical methods ofassembling composite panels have involved using a tab and slotarrangement, where a first panel includes a tab extending from an edgethat is coupled to a slot included on a second panel. Other methods ofassembling composite panels have involved orienting panelsperpendicularly to each other and having fasteners extending through apanel edge to couple them together, or having an angle bracket, e.g.,L-shaped bracket, coupled to inside faces of the panels and fastened tothe panels.

Such methods of coupling composite panels, however, limit or restrictopportunities to disassemble the panels post-coupling, as disassemblingthe panels can lead to damage to the components used to assemble thepanels. Further, the restriction or limitation of disassembling thepanels post-coupling prevents finishing the panels, i.e., applyingdecorative finishes, prior to the assembly. Still further, the hardwarerequired to assemble the panels adds avoidable weight, results in costlyand complex manufacturing and/or assembly fixtures, and results inunsightly or aesthetically unpleasant components.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In various implementations, panel assemblies and components thereof, andrelated methods to assemble the same with robust, compact, and efficientform factors enable ease of assembly/disassembly of panels that can beused to construct various components and structures. Further the variousimplementations described herein improve aesthetic appeal and reduce theweight footprint of the various components and structures that can beconstructed via the various implementations of panel assemblies andcomponents thereof described herein. For example, in one non-limitingimplementation, a panel assembly can be summarized as a first panelhaving a peripheral side located between an upper and a lower surface ofthe first panel, and a first opening; and a second panel having a secondopening. The panel assembly can include an elongated insert having acoupling side, where the first opening of the first panel is sized andshaped to coupleably receive the elongated insert such that the couplingside is positioned proximal to the peripheral side; and a fasteninginsert, where the second opening of the second panel is sized and shapedto receive the fastening insert. The panel assembly can include afastener received by the fastening insert and the elongated insert, thefastener coupling the first panel to the second panel via the fasteninginsert and the elongated insert.

For example, in another non-limiting implementation, a method ofassembling a panel assembly can be summarized as including coupling anelongated insert to a peripheral side of a first panel; coupling afastening insert to a second panel; and coupling the first panel to thesecond panel via a fastener which extends through the elongated insertand the fastening insert.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective of a panel assembly, according to one exampleimplementation.

FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view of the panel assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a partial cutaway view of the panel assembly of FIG. 1, takenalong line 3-3.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 4B is another perspective view of the elongated insert of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the elongated insert of FIG. 4A,taken along line 4C-4C.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 5B is another perspective of the elongated insert of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6D is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6E is a cross-sectional view of the elongated insert of FIG. 6D,taken along a central plane of the elongated insert.

FIG. 6F is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6G is a cross-sectional view of the elongated insert of FIG. 6F,taken along a central plane of the elongated insert.

FIG. 6H is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6I is another perspective view of the elongated insert of FIG. 6H.

FIG. 6J is a perspective view of an elongated insert, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 6K is a cross-sectional view of the elongated insert of FIG. 6J,taken along a central plane of the elongated insert.

FIG. 7A is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 7B is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 7D is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 7C.

FIG. 7E is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 7F is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 7E.

FIG. 7G is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 7H is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 7G.

FIG. 7I is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 7J is a cross-sectional view of the fastening insert of FIG. 7I,taken along a central plane of the fastening insert.

FIG. 8A is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 8B is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 8D is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 8C.

FIG. 8E is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 8F is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 8E.

FIG. 9A is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 9B is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 9D is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 9C.

FIG. 9E is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 9F is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 9E.

FIG. 9G is a top perspective view of a fastening insert, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 9H is a bottom perspective view of the fastening insert of FIG. 9G.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a panel illustrating pre-installationof an elongated insert, according to one example implementation.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of an installation fixture, according toone example implementation.

FIG. 10C is a perspective view of the panel of FIG. 8A illustratingintermediate-installation of the elongated insert.

FIG. 10D is a perspective of the panel of FIG. 10A illustratingpost-installation of the elongated insert.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a panel illustrating pre-installationof a fastening insert, according to one example implementation.

FIG. 11B is a perspective of an installation fixture, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 11C is a perspective view of the panel of FIG. 8A illustratingintermediate-installation of the fastening insert.

FIG. 11D is a perspective view of the panel of FIG. 8A illustratingpost-installation of the fastening insert.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a panel assembly, according to oneexample implementation.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a panel assembly, according to oneexample implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, certain specific details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosedembodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize thatembodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specificdetails. In other instances, well-known structures and devicesassociated with panel assemblies and related apparatuses, systems, andmethods may not be shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarilyobscuring descriptions of the embodiments.

Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification andclaims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, such as“comprises” and “comprising,” are to be construed in an open, inclusivesense, that is, as “including, but not limited to.”

Reference throughout this specification to “one implementation” or “animplementation” means that a particular feature, structure orcharacteristic described in connection with the implementation isincluded in at least one implementation. Thus, the appearances of thephrases “in one implementation” or “in an implementation” in variousplaces throughout this specification are not necessarily all referringto the same implementation. Furthermore, the particular features,structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner inone or more implementation.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singularforms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or”is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a panel assembly 10, according to one exampleimplementation. The panel assembly 10 includes a first panel 12 and asecond panel 14 coupled to the first panel 12. The first panel 12includes an elongated insert 16, according to one exampleimplementation, and the second panel 14 includes a fastening insert 18,according to one example implementation. The first panel 12 is coupledto the second panel 14 via a fastener 20, e.g., screw, bolt, etc., whichis inserted through the fastening insert 18 and couples to the elongatedinsert 16.

The first and second panels 12, 14 are generally composite panels. Forexample, FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a honeycomb panel. The honeycomb panelgenerally includes a pair of face sheets, typically comprising metallicstructures or fiber-reinforced thermosetting or thermoplastic compositestructures, coupled to, and sandwiching, a honeycomb core. In otherimplementations, however, the first and second panels 12, 14 cancomprise other composite structures, such as, for example, CFRP panels,or other panels having a composite of a resin matrix and sheets embeddedin the matrix. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, the first and second panels12, 14 are removably coupled to each other via the elongated insert 16,the fastening insert 18, and the fastener 20. Assembling the first andsecond panels 12, 14 in this manner, advantageously, allows the panels(e.g., first and second panels 12, 14) to be disassembled with relativeease, reduces the weight footprint, avoids damaging the panels causedduring disassembly of permanently coupled panels, e.g., via fastenersextending directly through edges or positioned proximal to edges of thepanels, and avoids use of unattractive attaching structures, such as thetab, slot arrangement of prior designs. Further, the ease ofassembly/disassembly permits finishing the panels prior to assembly.

By way of example, as described above, the first panel 12 and the secondpanel 14 can be assembled with relative ease by removably coupling eachother via the elongated insert 16, the fastening insert 18, and thefastener 20. Thus, the first panel 12 can be uncoupled by removing thefastener 20, which permits the first panel 12 and/or the second panel 14to be reused without damaging either the first panel 12 or the secondpanel 14 during disassembly. By way of further example, assembling thepanel assembly 10 in this manner can facilitate positioning, aligning,and/or repositioning any attaching panel, e.g., second panel 14, bylocating the fastening insert 18 anywhere within a boundary of theattaching panel, e.g., second panel 14. By way of further example,assembling the panel assembly 10 according to the variousimplementations described herein can improve the aesthetic appearance ofpanel assemblies. For instance, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, theexternal surfaces of the elongated insert 16 are substantially flushwith external surfaces of the first panel 12, and top and bottomsurfaces of the fastening insert 18 are substantially flush withexternal surfaces of the second panel 14. In this manner, the panelassembly 10 provides an aesthetically pleasing view, along with theother improvements discussed above.

FIGS. 4A-C illustrates the elongated insert 16 that is coupled to thefirst panel 12. In some implementations, the elongated insert 16 cancomprise metallic structures, such as aluminum, titanium, steel, etc. Insuch implementations, the metallic structures can be fabricated viamachining, casting, or other suitable processes and methods. In otherimplementations, the elongated insert 16 can comprise plastic materials,such as various polyamides, including Torlon, IXEF, etc. In suchimplementations, the elongated insert 16 can be made via injectionmolding, or other suitable processes and methods. The elongated insert16 includes a main body 22 which has a generally rectangular shape witha front side 23 that has a generally arcuate shape. In otherimplementations, however, the elongated insert 16 may have other shapesand configurations, such as square, cylindrical, elliptical, etc. Themain body 22 includes a pair of sides 24 a, 24 b which are a mirrorimage of each other with respect to a longitudinal central axis 25. Themain body 22 also includes a back side 26 that is located at an oppositeend of the front side 23.

At each side 24 a, 24 b, the main body 22 includes core pusher members27 a, 27 b that protrude outwardly from corresponding side surfaces 28a, 28 b. Each core pusher member 27 a, 27 b is generally rectangularlyshaped and includes corresponding front surfaces 29 a, 29 b that areoriented to angularly extend relative to a vertical axis 30 of the mainbody 22. Each core pusher member 27 a, 27 b is centrally locatedrelative to a pair of corresponding cutting members 31 a, 31 b. Inparticular, one of the pair of cutting members 31 a, 31 b is locatedabove the corresponding core pusher members 27 a, 27 b to definecorresponding first flow regions 32 a, 32 b and the other of the pair ofcutting members 31 a, 31 b is located below the corresponding corepusher members 27 a, 27 b to define corresponding second flow regions 33a, 33 b.

Each cutter member 31 a, 31 b protrudes outwardly relative to thecorresponding side surfaces 28 a, 28 b and includes a plurality ofapertures 34 which define a plurality of teeth 35. In particular, uppersurfaces and lower surfaces of each cutter member 31 a, 31 b protrudeoutwardly from the corresponding side surfaces 28 a, 28 b and taperinwardly to define corresponding sharp edges. In this manner, theplurality of apertures 34, the taper and protrusion define substantiallyserrated edges 36 a, 36 b on each side of the elongated insert 16. At afront end, each cutter member 31 a, 31 b includes corresponding cuttingedges 37 a, 37 b. Each cutting edge 37 a, 37 b is defined by a generallyprism-shaped surface, having an edge that extends angularly relative tothe vertical axis 30 of the main body 22. Although the cutting edges 37a, 37 b in this implementation include a generally prism-shaped surface,in other implementations, however, the cutting edges 37 a, 37 b mayinclude other shaped surfaces that are capable of having a generallysharp edge to cut through various panels, as described in more detailbelow.

As described above, the front side 23 of the main body 22 has agenerally arcuate shape. The front side 23 includes a recess 39 which atleast partially extends through the front side 23 to define a front flowregion 40. The back side 26 of the main body 22 includes an insertaperture 41 that at least partially extends through the main body 22 ina longitudinal direction, e.g., along the longitudinal central axis 25.The insert aperture 41 is sized and shaped to optionally coupleablyreceive a threaded insert 42. In some implementations, the threadedinsert 42 can be coupled to the main body 22 via a press-fit connection,where an outer diameter of the threaded insert 42 is sized and shaped tobe less than a diameter of the insert aperture 41, thus coupling thethreaded insert 42 to the main body 22 via frictional forces. In otherimplementations, however, the threaded insert 42 can be coupled to themain body 22 via welding, fastening, adhering, or other suitablecoupling structures. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4C, the threaded insert42 is generally hollow and includes a plurality of threads. Theplurality of threads are sized and shaped to coupleably receive thefastener 20 which couples the first panel 12 to the second panel 14.Still further, in some implementations, the threaded insert 42 can beomitted. In such implementations, the insert aperture 41 can be sizedand shaped to include threaded structures that couple to the fastener20, e.g., tapped apertures, blind fasteners, etc.

FIGS. 5A, 5B illustrates an elongated insert 416 according to anotherexample implementation. The elongated insert 416 provides a variation inwhich the elongated insert 416 generally excludes or omits the corepusher members 27 a, 27 b and cutting members 31 a, 31 b. The elongatedinsert 416 includes a main body 422 having a pair of sides, 424 a, 424b, a back side 426, and a front side 423. Each side 424 a, 424 bincludes a corresponding recess 435 a, 435 b extending partially throughthe main body 422 to define corresponding side flow regions 436 a, 436b. In some implementations, each side 424 a, 424 b can include a bosselement 425 which extends or protrudes outwardly from a correspondingside surface. The boss element 425 is generally sized and shaped tostrengthen a joint formed with the elongated insert 416 and the panelthe elongated insert 416 is coupled to. For instance, the boss element425, post-coupling, resists decoupling of the elongated insert 416, asremoval would require overcoming the shear forces of the joint formedbetween the panel and the elongated insert 416.

The front side 423 includes a front recess 437 extending partiallythrough the front side 423 to define a front flow region 440. The sideflow regions 436 a, 436 b and the front flow region 440 collectivelydefine a flow region or path for a potting compound to flow around theelongated insert 416 to couple or bond the elongated insert 416 to apanel, e.g., first panel 12, second panel 14, etc. In particular, theback side 426 includes a pair of apertures 439 extending therethrough,which are sized and shaped to allow the potting compound to be appliedto the elongated insert 416 inserted into a panel, e.g., first panel 12,second panel 14, etc., and are generally aligned with the correspondingside flow regions 436 a, 436 b to allow the potting compound to beapplied.

FIG. 6A illustrates an elongated insert 516 according to another exampleimplementation. The elongated insert 516 is generally similar to theelongated insert 416 but provides a variation in which an insertaperture 541 extends through a main body 522, in lieu of an insertaperture and/or a threaded insert extending through a back side, e.g.,back side 426. Again, the elongated insert 516 includes a pair ofapertures 539 extending through a back side 526 of the elongated insert516. As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the elongated insert 616 also includes afront flow region 540 and side flow regions 536 a, 536 b.

FIG. 6B illustrates an elongated insert 616 according to another exampleimplementation. The elongated insert 616 is generally similar to theelongated insert 516 but provides a variation in which a main body 622includes recesses 636 a, 636 b disposed in corresponding sides 624 a,624 b and extending through a substantially T-shaped back side 626, anda front recess 637 disposed on a front side 623 that define an upperflange 649 and a lower flange 651. The upper flange 649 extends beyondthe lower flange 651 to define side flow regions 636 a, 636 b and frontflow region 640. In this implementation, the side flow regions 636 a,636 b and the front flow region 640 are advantageously sized and shapedto selectively allow an increased surface area to adhere to acorresponding panel to which the elongated insert 616 is coupled. Again,as illustrated in FIG. 6B, an insert aperture 641 extends through themain body 622, in particular, through the upper flange 649 and the lowerflange 651.

FIG. 6C illustrates an elongated insert 716 according to another exampleimplementation. The elongated insert 716 is generally similar to theelongated insert 616, but provides a variation in which a main body 722includes a back side 726 having an insert aperture 741. The insertaperture 741 extends partially through the main body 722 via the backside 726. Again, a threaded insert 742 can be coupled to the main body722 via the insert aperture 741.

FIGS. 6D-6E illustrate an elongated insert 816 according to anotherexample implementation. The elongated insert 816 is generally similar tothe elongated insert 716, but provides a variation in which an insertaperture 841 extends through a main body 822 via a back side 826 at anangular orientation. In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 6E, theinsert aperture 841 extends angularly relative to a central axis 850toward a lower flange 851 of the elongated insert 816 at an angle α. Insome implementations, the angle α can be in a range of about 15 to 20degrees.

FIGS. 6F-6G illustrate an elongated insert 916 according to anotherexample implementation. The elongated insert 916 is generally similar tothe elongated insert 816, but provides a variation in which an insertaperture 941 extends through a main body 922 via a back side 926 at anangular orientation toward an upper flange 949 of the elongated insert916. In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 6F, the upper flange 949 ofthe main body 922 includes a recess 953 that extends partially throughthe main body 922. The recess 953 generally has an eye-shape whichdefines a receiving surface 954 that extends angularly relative to acentral axis 950 of the elongated insert 916. In this manner, the insertaperture 941 and the receiving surface 954 extend angularly relative tothe central axis 950 at an angle α, where the insert aperture 941 andthe receiving surface 954 are sized and shaped to allow a fastener toextend angularly relative to the central axis 950. Again, in someimplementations, the angle α can be in a range of about 15 to 20degrees.

FIGS. 6H-6I illustrate an elongated insert 1016 according to anotherexample implementation. The elongated insert 1016 is generally similarto the elongated insert 616, but provides certain variations. Theelongated insert 1016 includes a main body 1022 that includes recesses1036 a, 1036 b disposed in corresponding sides of the main body 1022.The main body 1022 includes a substantially rectangular-shaped back side1026. The back side 1026 includes a pair of lower notches 1051 a, 1051b. In general, the larger area of the back side 1026 is sized and shapedto provide extra material for retention of potting compound on a paneledge. The back side 1026 includes an insert aperture 1041 that extendspartially through the main body 1022 via the back side 1026. In thisimplementation, the main body 1022 includes a pair of apertures 1039extending therethrough, which are sized and shaped to allow the pottingcompound to be applied to the elongated insert 1016 inserted into apanel, e.g., first panel 12, second panel 14, etc. The pair of apertures1039 are located proximal to the back side 1026, extending through a topside or upper flange of the main body 1022.

FIGS. 6J-6K illustrate an elongated insert 1116 according to anotherexample implementation. The elongated insert 1116 is generally similarto the elongated insert 1016, but provides certain variations. Inparticular, the elongated insert 1116 includes a main body 1122 thatincludes an angular back side 1126. The angular back side 1126 extendsin an angular orientation relative to a central axis 1150 of theelongated insert 1116. For example, in some implementations, the angularback side 1126 is angularly oriented relative to the central axis 1150at an angle α. The angular orientation of the back side 1126 facilitatescoupling first and second panels where one or both of the first andsecond panels may be oriented at an angular configuration. As such, theangle α can vary to accommodate the angular orientation of the firstand/or second panels. The main body 1122 includes an insert aperture1141 that extends through the back side 1126 and a top side or upperflange 1149 of the main body 1122. As illustrated in FIGS. 6J, 6K, theinsert aperture 1141 is defined at least in part by a lip region 1188and an elliptical shaped region 1189 that are angularly orientedrelative to an upper surface 1190 of the top side or upper flange 1149at an angle β. The lip region 1118 in some implementations may be sizedand shaped to receive a head of a fastener that extends angularly tocouple the first and/or second panels.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate the fastening insert 18 that is coupled to thesecond panel 14. In some implementations, the fastening insert 18 cancomprise metallic structures, such as aluminum, titanium, steel, etc. Insuch implementations, the metallic structures can be fabricated viamachining, casting, or other suitable processes and methods. In otherimplementations, the fastening insert 18 can comprise plastic materials,such as various polyamides, including Torlon, IXEF, etc. The fasteninginsert 18 includes a cap portion 44 and a shaft portion 45. The capportion 44 has a generally cylindrical shape and includes a pair ofslots 46 extending therethrough and positioned proximal to a peripheryof the cap portion 44. In some implementations, the cap portion 44includes a fastener aperture 47 that extends through the cap portion 44.The fastener aperture 47 is surrounded by a neck down region 48 disposedin the cap portion 44 which is sized and shaped to provide a countersink49. The countersink 49 is sized and shaped to receive a fastener, e.g.,fastener 20, such that an exterior surface of the fastener sitssubstantially flush with an exterior surface of the cap portion 44 whenthe fastener is coupleably received by the fastening insert 18. In otherimplementations, however, the cap portion 44 can exclude a fasteneraperture 47 and have a solid structure. In some implementations, asshown in FIGS. 7A-7B, the fastener aperture 47 is located at an offsetrelative to a central axis 50 of the fastening insert 18. Positioningthe fastener aperture 47 at the offset advantageously providespositional flexibility during assembly of the panel assembly 10 as thefasteners, e.g., fastener 20, that couple the first panel 12 to thesecond panel 14 can be positioned proximal to the edges of the panels,e.g., second panel 14.

The shaft portion 45 extends outwardly from a lower surface 51 of thecap portion 44. The shaft portion 45 includes a shaft insert aperture 52that extends through the shaft portion 45 to define a generally hollowstructure of the shaft portion 45. The shaft insert aperture 52 islocated in the shaft portion 45 to be substantially coaxial with thefastener aperture 47 of the cap portion 44. The shaft insert aperture 52is sized and shaped to optionally coupleably receive a fasteningthreaded insert 53. In some implementations, the fastening threadedinsert 53 can be coupled to the shaft portion 45 via a press-fitconnection, where an outer diameter of the fastening threaded insert 53is sized and shaped to be less than a diameter of the shaft insertaperture 52, thus coupling the fastening threaded insert 53 to the shaftportion 45 via frictional forces. In other implementations, however, thefastening threaded insert 53 can be coupled to the shaft portion 45 viawelding, fastening, adhering, or other suitable coupling structures.Still further, in some implementations, the fastening threaded insert 53can be omitted. In such implementations, the shaft insert aperture 52can be sized and shaped to include threaded structures that couple tothe fastener 20, e.g., tapped apertures, blind fasteners, etc., or theshaft insert aperture 52 can be a through hole, i.e., extending throughthe shaft portion 45. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, the fasteningthreaded insert 53 is generally hollow and includes a plurality ofthreads. The plurality of threads are sized and shaped to optionallycoupleably receive the fastener 20 which couples the first panel 12 tothe second panel 14.

Moreover, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, in some implementations, thefastening threaded insert 53 can be omitted and the fastener 20 canextend through the shaft insert aperture 52 and fasten to the threadedinsert 42 of the elongated insert 16. In instances where the fasteninginsert 18 includes a fastening threaded insert 53, as illustrated inFIGS. 5A-5B, the fastener 20 can be threadedly received by the fasteningthreaded insert 53 of the fastening insert 18 and the threaded insert 42of the elongated insert 16.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, the fastening insert 18 also includes arib portion 55. The rib portion 55 extends from an outer surface of theshaft portion 45 to the lower surface 51 of the cap portion 44. The ribportion 55 is generally sized and shaped to improve strength andstability of the fastening insert 18.

FIGS. 7C-7D illustrate a fastening insert 1118 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 1118 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 18 illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, butprovides a variation in which a lower surface 1151 includes a pluralityof boss elements 1115 which extend or protrude outwardly from the lowersurface 1151. The boss elements 1115 are generally sized and shaped tostrengthen a joint formed with the fastening insert 1118 and the panelto which the fastening insert 1118 is coupled. For instance, the bosselements 1115, post-coupling, resist decoupling of the fastening insert1118, as removal would require overcoming the shear forces of the jointformed between the panel and the fastening insert 1118. As illustratedin FIGS. 7C-7D, the fastening insert 1118 includes a fastener aperture1147 which extends through a cap portion 1144 and is located to beoffset relative to a central axis 1150 of the fastening insert 1118.Again, the fastener aperture 1147 is substantially coaxial with a shaftinsert aperture 1152 that extends through a shaft portion 1145.

FIGS. 7E-7F illustrate a fastening insert 1218 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 1218 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 1118 illustrated in FIGS. 7C-7D, butprovides a variation in which the fastening insert 1218 includes a shaftinsert aperture 1252 that extends through a shaft portion 1245 but omitsa fastener aperture that extends through a cap portion 1244. In general,in such an implementation, the fastening insert 1218 does not include anaperture that extends through a body of the fastening insert 1218.Further, as illustrated in FIG. 7F, the fastening insert 1218 is sizedand shaped to optionally coupleably receive a fastening threaded insert1253.

FIGS. 7G-7H illustrate a fastening insert 1318 according to analternative implementation. This fastening insert 1318 is generallysimilar to the fastening inserts illustrated above, but provides avariation in which the fastening insert 1318 includes a shaft portion1345 that extends between a cap portion 1344 and a support portion 1346.In particular, the shaft portion 1345 extends at an angular orientationrelative to a central axis 1350 of the fastening insert 1318. As such,in this implementation of the fastening insert 1318, a shaft insertaperture 1352 that extends through the shaft portion 1345 is offset fromthe central axis 1350 and extends at an angular orientation relative tothe central axis 1350 such that a central shaft portion axis 1377 isangularly spaced apart relative to the central axis 1350 at an angle β.Further, similar to the fastening insert 1218 illustrated in FIGS.7E-7F, the fastening 1318 omits a fastener aperture that extends throughthe cap portion 1344. While the fastening insert 1318 illustrated inFIGS. 7G-7H omits boss elements, in other implementations, the fasteninginsert 1318 can include one or more boss elements. Moreover, in someimplementations, the fastening insert 1318 can include a fasteneraperture which extends through the cap portion 1344 and can be sized andshaped to receive a fastening threaded insert.

FIGS. 7I-7J illustrate a fastening insert 1818 according to analternative implementation. This fastening insert 1818 is generallysimilar to the fastening inserts illustrated above, for example,fastening insert 1318, but provides certain variations. The fasteninginsert 1818 includes a cap portion 1844 that has an asymmetric shape,such as, for example, a substantially oval shape and a shaft portion1845 that extends between the cap portion 1844 and a support portion1846. The asymmetric shape can facilitate a clocking feature, forexample, where the cap portion 1844 is sized and shaped to be receivedin an aperture of a panel in a certain orientation. For instance, such aclocking feature can facilitate locating the fastening insert 1818 in apanel.

The shaft portion 1845 extends at an angular orientation relative to acentral axis 1850 of the fastening insert 1818. As such, in thisimplementation of the fastening insert 1818, a shaft insert aperture1852 that extends through the shaft portion 1845 extends at an angularorientation relative to the central axis 1850 such that the insertaperture 1852 is angularly oriented relative to the central axis 1850 atan angle β. The angle β can vary to accommodate a wide variety ofinstallations. Further, in contrast to the fastening insert 1318, theinsert aperture 1852 extends through the cap portion 1844 and at leastpartially through the shaft portion 1845 but omits extending through thesupport portion 1845. Again, the insert aperture 1852 can be sized andshaped to receive a fastening threaded insert, which may function as ablind fastening threaded insert, for example, blind fastening threadedinsert 1853.

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a fastening insert 118 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 118 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 18 illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B, butprovides a variation in which a fastener aperture 147 extends through acap portion 144 and is located to be substantially coaxial with acentral axis 150 of the fastening insert 118. In other implementations,however, the cap portion 144 can exclude the fastener aperture 147 andhave a solid structure. As illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8B, a shaft portion145 of the fastening insert 118 is also located centrally relative tothe central axis 150 of the fastening insert 118 and includes a shaftinsert aperture 152 which is substantially coaxial with the fasteneraperture 147. The fastening insert 118 illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8B alsoincludes a pair of rib portions 155, where each rib portion extends froman outer surface of the shaft portion 145 to a lower surface 151 of thecap portion 144 and is a mirror image of each other relative to thecentral axis 150. In other implementations, however, the fasteninginserts 18, 118 can include more than one or a pair of rib portions 55,155, or may omit rib portions 55, 155.

FIGS. 8C-8D illustrate a fastening insert 218 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 218 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8B, but providesa variation in which a lower surface 251 includes a plurality of bosselements 225 which extend or protrude outwardly from the lower surface251. The boss elements 225 are generally sized and shaped to strengthena joint formed with the fastening insert 218 and the panel to which thefastening insert 218 is coupled. For instance, the boss elements 225,post-coupling, resist decoupling of the fastening insert 218, as removalwould require overcoming the shear forces of the joint formed betweenthe panel and the fastening insert 218. As illustrated in FIGS. 8C-8D,the fastening insert 218 includes a fastener aperture 247 which extendsthrough a cap portion 244 and is located to be substantially coaxialwith a central axis 250 of the fastening insert 218. The fasteneraperture 247 is also substantially coaxial with a shaft insert aperture252.

FIGS. 8E-8F illustrate a fastening insert 318 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 318 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 218 illustrated in FIGS. 8C-8D, butprovides a variation in which the fastening insert 318 includes a shaftinsert aperture 352 that extends through a shaft portion 351, but omitsa fastener aperture that extends through a cap portion 344. In general,in such an implementation, the fastening insert 318 does not include anaperture that extends through a body of the fastening insert 318.Further, as illustrated in FIG. 8F, the fastening insert 318 is sizedand shaped to optionally coupleably receive a fastening threaded insert353.

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate a fastening insert 1418 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 1418 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 218 illustrated in FIGS. 8C-8D, butprovides a variation in which a cap portion 1444 has a larger crosssectional area and, more generally, a larger footprint, and includes asupport portion 1451. As illustrated in FIGS. 9A, 9B, a footprint of thesupport portion 1451 is generally less than the footprint of the capportion 1444. A shaft portion 1445 extends between the cap portion 1444and the support portion 1451. The fastening insert 1418 includes a pairof rib portions 1455 a, 1455 b that protrude outwardly from an outersurface of the shaft portion 1445. Each rib portion 1455 a, 1455 bextends between a lower surface 1457 of the cap portion 1444 and anupper surface 1458 of the support portion 1451. Each rib portion 1455 a,1455 b mirrors the other relative to a central axis 1450 of thefastening insert 1418. In some implementations, the fastening insert1418 can include one rib portion, or any number of rib portions, or mayomit the rib portions 1455.

As illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B, the fastening insert 1418 includes afastening aperture 1447 which extends through the cap portion 1444 andis located to be substantially coaxial with the central axis 1450 of thefastening insert 1418. The fastener aperture 1447 is also substantiallycoaxial with a shaft insert aperture 1452 that extends through the shaftportion 1445 and the support portion 1451. The cap portion 1444 includesa pair of slots 1446. Additionally, the fastener aperture 1447 issurrounded by a neck down region 1448 disposed in the cap portion 1444which is sized and shaped to provide a countersink 1449. The countersink1449 is sized and shaped to receive a fastener, e.g., fastener 20, suchthat an exterior surface of the fastener sits substantially flush withan exterior surface of the cap portion 1444 when the fastener iscoupleably received by the fastening insert 1418.

FIGS. 9C-9D illustrate a fastening insert 1518 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 1518 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 1418 illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B, butprovides a variation in which a fastener aperture 1547 and a shaftinsert aperture 1552 are sized and shaped as a slot to receive one ormore fasteners that can be moved within the slot to facilitate alignmentof surrounding structures that are to be coupled. The fastener aperture1547 extends through a cap portion 1544 and a center of the fasteneraperture 1547 is substantially aligned with a central axis 1550 of thefastening insert 1518. As illustrated in FIGS. 9C-9D, a shaft portion1545 extends between the cap portion 1544 and a support portion 1551.The fastening insert 1518 illustrated in FIGS. 9C-9D includes a firstrib portion 1555 a and a second rib portion 1556 a, and a third ribportion 1555 b and a fourth rib portion 1556 b. The first rib portion1555 a and the second rib portion 1556 a are a mirror image ofrespective third rib portion 1555 b and fourth rib portion 1556 brelative to the central axis 1550 of the fastening insert 1518.

The cap portion 1544 includes a pair of slots 1546. Additionally, thefastener aperture 1547 is surrounded by a neck down region 1548 disposedin the cap portion 1544 which is sized and shaped to provide acountersink 1549. The countersink 1549 is sized and shaped to receive afastener, e.g., fastener 20, such that an exterior surface of thefastener sits substantially flush with an exterior surface of the capportion 1544 when the fastener is coupleably received by the fasteninginsert 1518.

FIGS. 9E-9F illustrate a fastening insert 1618 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 1618 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 1418 illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B, butprovides a variation in which there are two fastener apertures 1647extending through a cap portion 1644 of the fastening insert 1618, andtwo shaft insert apertures 1652 extending through respective shaftportions 1645 and a support portion 1651 of the fastening insert 1618.Again, the shaft portions 1645 extend between the cap portion 1644 andthe support portion 1651 of the fastening insert 1618. As illustrated inFIGS. 9E-9F, centers of the fastener apertures 1647 and the shaft insertapertures 1652 are substantially aligned with each other. In someimplementations, as illustrated in FIGS. 9E, 9F, the shaft portions 1645are generally equally spaced apart relative to a central axis 1650 ofthe fastening insert 1618.

The fastening insert 1618 illustrated in FIGS. 9E-9F includes a firstrib portion 1655 a and a second rib portion 1656 a, and a third ribportion 1655 b and a fourth rib portion 1656 b. The first rib portion1655 a and the second rib portion 1656 a are a mirror image ofrespective third rib portion 1655 b and fourth rib portion 1656 brelative to the central axis 1650 of the fastening insert 1618. Further,the cap portion includes a pair of slots 1646. Additionally, eachfastener aperture 1647 is surrounded by a respective neck down region1648 disposed in the cap portion 1644 which is sized and shaped toprovide a respective countersink 1649. The countersinks 1649 are sizedand shaped to receive a fastener, e.g., fastener 20, such that anexterior surface of the fastener sits substantially flush with anexterior surface of the cap portion 1644 when the fastener is coupleablyreceived by the fastening insert 1618.

FIGS. 9G-9H illustrate a fastening insert 1718 according to analternative implementation. The fastening insert 1718 is generallysimilar to the fastening insert 1618 illustrated in FIGS. 9E-9F, butprovides a variation in which the fastening insert 1718 includes twoshaft insert apertures 1752 that extend through respective shaftportions 1745 and a support portion 1751, but omit fastener aperturesthat extend through a cap portion 1744. In general, in such animplementation, the fastening insert 1718 does not include an aperturethat extends through a body of the fastening insert 1718. However, theshaft insert apertures 1752 are optionally sized and shaped tocoupleably receive a fastening threaded insert 1753.

The fastening insert 1718 illustrated in FIGS. 9G-9H includes a pair ofrib portions 1755 a, 1755 b that protrude outwardly from an outersurface of respective shaft portions 1745. Each rib portion 1755 a, 1755b mirrors the other relative to a central axis 1750 of the fasteninginsert 1718. In some implementations, the fastening insert can includeone rib portion, or any number of rib portions, or may omit the ribportions 1755. Further, the cap portion 1744 of the fastening insert1718 includes a pair of slots 1746.

FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate various stages of installation of the elongatedinsert 16 in the first panel 12. With reference to FIGS. 10A-10D andcontinued reference to FIGS. 1-4D, the elongated insert 16 can becoupled to the first panel 12 via an elongated insert fixture 60, asillustrated in detail in FIG. 10B. In particular, as illustrated in FIG.10B, the elongated insert 16 is coupled to the first panel 12 such thatthe insert aperture 41 and/or the threaded insert 42 of the elongatedinsert 16 is located at a peripheral side 8 of the first panel 12.Locating the elongated insert 16 in this manner allows the first panel12 to be coupled to an adjacent panel, e.g., at or along one or more ofthe peripheral sides 8, such as through the honeycomb core, with thecoupling side of the elongated insert 16, i.e., back side 26 exposed tobe coupled to an adjoining panel, i.e., second panel 14. Constructingpanel assemblies, e.g., panel assembly 10, in this manner allows forease of construction and assembly and/or disassembly. For example, usingthe components of the panel assemblies according to the variousimplementations described herein reduces the overall weight footprint ofthe panel assemblies, e.g., panel assembly 10, and permits constructingstructures, enclosures, etc., by assembling a plurality of panelassemblies via peripheral sides of one or more of the panel assemblies,which panel assemblies can be removably coupled and reused upondisassembly, and can be decoratively finished prior to installation.

The elongated insert fixture 60 includes a pair of opposing sides 61protruding outwardly from a back side 62. The opposing sides 61 protrudeoutwardly from the back side 62 to define an elongated insert receivingregion 63. The elongated insert receiving region 63 is sized and shapedto tautly receive the elongated insert 16. In particular, the back side62 of the elongated insert fixture 60 includes a first fixture aperture64 which is positioned to align with the insert aperture 41 disposed onthe back side 26 of the elongated insert 16. Adjacent to the firstfixture aperture 64, the elongated insert fixture 60 includes a pair ofadhesive apertures 65, each adhesive aperture 65 spaced apart from thefirst fixture aperture 64. As illustrated in FIG. 10A, the elongatedinsert 16 is received in the elongated insert receiving region 63 and iscoupled to the elongated insert fixture 60 via a fixture fastener 66which extends through the first fixture aperture 64 and the insertaperture 41 and, more particularly, is coupled to the threaded insert 42(FIG. 10D) received in the insert aperture 41.

With specific reference to FIG. 10A, the first panel 12 is illustratedprior to installation of the elongated insert 16. The first panel 12includes an insert slot 67 which is sized and shaped to receive theelongated insert 16. In particular, the insert slot 67 has a certainwidth W, which width W is sized to be slightly less than a width W1 ofthe elongated insert 16. In this manner, as the elongated insert 16 isinserted in the insert slot 67 via the elongated insert fixture 60, thecutting members 31 a, 31 b on each side of the elongated insert 16 cutthrough the honeycomb core of the first panel 16. More particularly, theprism-shaped surfaces of the cutting edges 37 a, 37 b contact thehoneycomb core to create an initial cut and as the elongated insert 16travels longitudinally, the serrated edges 36 a, 36 b continue to cutthrough the honeycomb core. As illustrated in FIG. 10A, the positioningof the cutting members 31 a, 31 b proximal to the upper and lower facesheets of the first panel 12 on either side of the elongated insert 16facilitates flow of adhesive near or adjacent to the face sheets as thecutting members 31 a, 31 b pierce or cut through the honeycomb core, asdescribed in more detail below.

As the elongated insert 16 travels longitudinally with the cuttingmembers 31 a, 31 b cutting through the honeycomb core as describedabove, each core pusher member 27 a, 27 b contacts the honeycomb coreand drives or pushes the honeycomb core away from honeycomb core thatwas cut or serrated via the cutting edges 37 a, 37 b of the cuttingmembers 31 a, 31 b. In particular, as the elongated insert 16 isinserted and the honeycomb core is cut, the angular front surfaces 29 a,29 b of the core pusher members 27 a, 27 b contact portions of thehoneycomb core between the cutting members 31 a, 31 b, and push or drivethese portions away at least equal to a width of each cutting member 31a, 31 b to create openings proximal to the corresponding first andsecond flow regions 32 a, 32 b, 33 a, 33 b.

With specific reference to FIG. 10C, the elongated insert 16 is insertedvia the elongated insert fixture 60. After installation, a pottingcompound 68, such as, for example, an epoxy based resin or other form ofadhesive, can be applied by using injector nozzles, applicator guns, orthe like, for example, as indicated via an applicator gun 69. Thepotting compound 68 is injected into the first panel 12 via one or thepair of adhesive apertures 65. In implementations where the pottingcompound 68 is applied through one of the pair of fixture adhesiveapertures 65, the potting compound 68 can flow from one of the adhesiveapertures 65 into the first panel 12 and around the elongated insert 16and exit from the other of the pair of adhesive apertures 65, indicatingsufficient volume of the potting compound 68 has been applied.Thereafter, any excess or residual potting compound 68 can be removed.Removal can be accomplished by scraping off excess potting compound orby wiping away excess potting compound 68 via a knife, wiping cloths, orthe like.

The potting compound 68 flows along the sides of the elongated insert 16via the first and second flow regions 32 a, 32 b, 33 a, 33 b and alongthe front side 23 of the elongated insert 16 via the front flow region40 (FIG. 10A). In this manner, the potting compound 68 collects around aperiphery of the elongated insert 16 and is thereafter cured. In someimplementations, the potting compound 68 can be cured at ambienttemperature or at elevated temperatures by use of appropriate heaters.

The elongated insert fixture 60 can, in some implementations, be removedprior to curing, or in other implementations, post-curing. In eitherimplementation, the elongated insert fixture 60 is removed by removingthe fixture fastener 66, leaving the elongated insert 16 installed inthe first panel 12, as illustrated in FIG. 10D, with the externalsurfaces of the elongated insert 16 being substantially flush with theexternal surfaces of the first panel 12.

While the implementation of FIGS. 10A-10D illustrates installation ofthe elongated insert 16 in the first panel 12, in other implementations,the various other implementations of the elongated insert describedherein, e.g., elongated inserts, 416, 516, 616, 716, 816, 916, etc., canbe installed in a similar manner. For instance, elongated inserts 416,516, 616, 716, 816, 916 can be installed in the first panel 12 via theelongated insert fixture 60 where the adhesive apertures 65 can be sizedand shaped to align with the pair of apertures 439, 539 disposed on theback side 426, 526 of the corresponding elongated insert 416, 516, oradjacent to a vertical flange of corresponding T-shaped back sides(e.g., back side 626, 726, 826, 926) of elongated inserts 616, 716, 816,916. In such an implementation, the omission of the cutting members 31a, 31 b and the core pusher members 27 a, 27 b can facilitate increasein a volume of flow of potting compound 68 via increase in area of theflow regions, e.g., side flow regions 436 a, 436 b, 536 a, 536 b, 636 a,636 b, etc. and/or front flow regions 440, 540, 640, etc. In thismanner, additional installation flexibility can be obtained. Forinstance, in applications where the potting compound 68 has lowerviscosity, the volume of the potting compound 68 needed to providesufficient bond strength may be provided by the elongated insert 16. Inother applications where the potting compound 68 has a higher viscosity,the volume of the potting compound 68 needed to provide sufficient bondstrength may be provided by the elongated inserts 416, 516.

FIGS. 11A-11D illustrate various stages of installation of the fasteninginsert 18 in the second panel 14. With reference to FIGS. 11A-11D andcontinued reference to FIGS. 1-3 and 7A-8B, the fastening insert 18 canbe coupled to the second panel 14 via a fastening insert fixture 70, asillustrated in detail in FIG. 11B. As illustrated in FIG. 11A, thesecond panel 14 includes a panel aperture 17 which is sized and shapedto receive the fastening insert 18. The panel aperture 17 is locatedproximal to an edge 9 of the second panel 14, which coupleably receivesthe fastening insert 18. Locating the fastening insert 18 proximal tothe edge 9 of the second panel 14 advantageously allows for flexibilityin construction of the panel assemblies according to the variousimplementations of panel assemblies described herein, as doing so canprovide relative ease of assembly/disassembly, sufficient strengthproperties which reduce or mitigate cracking or other failure modes, andreduce weight foot prints and high cost associated with fastening panelsproximal to the edges thereof for the various reasons discussed above.By way of example, locating the fastening insert 18 proximal to the edge9 can eliminate use of the complicated, heavy tab-slot, L-bracket, etc.,configurations. By way of further example, locating the fastening insert18 proximal to the edge 9 according to the various implementationsdescribed herein can improve the shear and other strength capabilitiesof the panel assemblies.

In particular, the panel aperture 17 is sized and shaped to have anouter diameter which is substantially or approximately equal to theouter diameter of the cap portion 44 of the fastening insert 18. Thefastening insert fixture 70 includes a central portion 71 and a tabportion 72. The central portion 71, in some implementations, has agenerally circular shape; however, in other implementations, the centralportion 71 can have other shapes and configurations, such as square,elliptical, etc. The tab portion 72 extends outwardly from a peripheraledge of the central portion 71 in an angular orientation relative to anexternal surface of the central portion 71. The angular orientation ofthe tab portion 72 facilitates providing access to a user to installand/or remove the fastening insert fixture 70 as described in moredetail below.

The central portion 71 of the fastening insert fixture 70 includes apair of fixture adhesive apertures 73 that are located proximal to aperipheral edge of the central portion 71.

With specific reference to FIG. 11C, the fastening insert fixture 70 isremovably coupled to the fastening insert 18 such that the fixtureadhesive apertures 73 substantially align with the pair of slots 46 ofthe fastening insert 18. In some implementations, the fastening insertfixture 70 can be removably coupled to the fastening insert 18 viaadhering, such that the fastening insert fixture 70 may be removed afterthe installation of the fastening insert 18 is completed. For example, alower surface 80 of the fastening insert fixture 70 can includeadhesives that bond with or adhere to an upper surface of the capportion 44 of the fastening insert 18.

As illustrated in FIG. 11C, the fastening insert fixture 70 is coupledin the manner described above, with the lower surface 80 coupled to theupper surface of the cap portion 44 such that the tab portion 72 isangularly oriented relative to the upper surface of the cap portion 44.Thus, the tab portion 72 allows users to grip, manipulate, and positiona combination of the fastening insert fixture 70 and the fasteninginsert 18 on the second panel 14. Thereafter, the fastening insertfixture 70 along with the fastening insert 18 is inserted into thesecond panel 14 such that the fastening insert 18 is received in thepanel aperture 17.

After installation, a potting compound 81, such as, for example, anepoxy based resin or other form of adhesive, can be applied by usinginjector nozzles, applicator guns, or the like, for example, asindicated via an applicator gun 82, which potting compound 81 fills thevoids, openings, or spaces in the second panel 14 created by the panelaperture 17. The potting compound 81 is injected into the second panel14 via one or both of the pair of fixture adhesive apertures 73. In thismanner, the potting compound 81 flows into the second panel 14 andaround the fastening insert 18, in particular, the shaft portion 45, tocouple the fastening insert 18 to the honeycomb core of the second panel14. In some implementations, a backing plate or masking tape can becoupled to the other side second panel 14 to prevent the pottingcompound 81 from contacting a working surface or other supportingstructures.

In implementations where the potting compound 81 is applied through oneof the pair of fixture adhesive apertures 73, the potting compound 81can flow from one of the fixture adhesive apertures 73 into the secondpanel 14 and around the fastening insert 18 and exit from the other ofthe pair of fixture adhesive apertures 73, indicating sufficient volumeof the potting compound 81 has been applied. Thereafter, any excess orresidual potting compound 81 can be removed. Removal can be accomplishedby scraping off excess potting compound or by wiping away excess pottingcompound 81 via a knife, wiping cloths, or the like.

After application of the potting compound 81, in some implementations,the potting compound 81 can be cured at ambient temperature. In someimplementations, the fastening insert fixture 70 can be removed prior tocuring, or in other implementations, post-curing. In eitherimplementation, the fastening insert fixture 70 is removed by peelingoff the fastening insert fixture 70 from the fastening insert 18 via thetab portion of the fastening insert fixture 70, as illustrated in FIG.11D, with the external surfaces of the fastening insert 18 beingsubstantially flush with the external surfaces of the second panel 14.

Moreover, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and 11A-11D, a number of variousimplementations of the fastening inserts, e.g., fastening inserts 18,118, 218, 318, 1118, 1218, 1318, 1418, 1518, 1618, 1718, etc. can beinstalled in the second panel 14 in a similar manner discussed above.For example, FIGS. 1-2 and 11A, 11D illustrate the fastening insert 118installed in the second panel 14. Although other fastening inserts canalso be installed in a similar manner, for the sake of clarity ofdescription and illustration, fastening insert 118 is described in moredetail. For example, in some implementations, the central portion 71 ofthe insert fixture 70 can be sized and shaped to couple to the capportions (e.g. cap portions 1444, 1544, 1644, 1744, etc.) of fasteninginserts (e.g., fastening inserts 1418, 1518, 1618, 1718, etc.). Further,the panel aperture 17 of the second panel 14 can be sized and shaped toreceive corresponding fastening inserts (e.g., fastening inserts 1418,1518, 1618, 1718, etc.).

Further, as illustrated therein, fastening inserts 18, 118 can beinstalled from either side of the second panel 14. In this manner, oneor more first panels 12 or other components can be coupled to one ormore second panels 14 along various positions and orientations toconfigure various panel assemblies having the various elongated inserts16, 416, 516, etc. described herein.

By way of example, FIG. 12 illustrates a panel assembly 210 according toone example implementation. The panel assembly 210 provides a variationin which a first panel 212 includes a first elongated insert 216 a,generally similar to the elongated insert 16, and a second panel 214includes a second elongated insert 216 b, generally similar to theelongated insert 516. Again, the second elongated insert 216 b providesa variation in which an insert aperture 241 extends through a top side219 of the second elongated insert 216 b. Further, a fastener 220extends through the insert aperture 241 and is coupled to a threadedinsert 242 disposed in the first elongated insert 216 a. Accordingly,the first and second panels 212, 214 are coupled to each other via thefastener 220 which extends through the insert aperture 241 of the secondelongated insert 216 b and is coupled to the first elongated insert 216a disposed in the first panel 212. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 12,the second panel 214 includes fastening inserts 218 a, 218 b which aregenerally similar to the fastening insert 118. Thus, the second panel214 can be coupled to other panels via one or more of the fasteninginserts 218 a, 218 b at or near those positions.

By way of example, FIG. 13 illustrates a panel assembly 310 according toone example implementation. The panel assembly 310 provides a variationin which a first panel 312 includes an elongated insert 316, which isgenerally similar to the elongated insert 16, and a second panel 314includes a fastening insert 318, which is similar to the fasteninginsert 118. In this implementation, the fastening insert 318 is locateddistal from an edge of the second panel 314. Again, the first and secondpanels 312, 314 are coupled to each other via a fastener 320 whichextends through the fastening insert 318 and is coupled to the elongatedinsert 316.

Although FIGS. 12-13 illustrate the panel assemblies 210, 310 thatrespectively form corner and T-joints via corresponding elongatedinserts 216 a, 216 b and elongated insert 316 and fastening insert 318,in other implementations, corner joints of panel assemblies can beformed via elongated insert 616 coupled to a first panel and elongatedinsert 716 coupled to a second panel, with a fastener coupling theelongated inserts 616, 716. In some implementations, a corner joint canbe formed via the fastening insert 1118 coupled to a first panel and theelongated insert 316 coupled to a second panel, with a fastener couplingthe fastening insert 1118 and the elongated insert 316. In someimplementations, a corner joint can be formed via the fastening insert1318 coupled to a first panel and the elongated insert 916 coupled to asecond panel, with a fastener coupling the elongated insert 916 and thefastening insert 1318. In such an implementation, the angularorientations of the shaft insert aperture 1352 and the insert aperture941 can advantageously be sized and shaped to align in order tofacilitate coupling capabilities in locations where access is limitedand strength capabilities of the joint are compromised.

Similarly, T-joints of panel assemblies can be formed via fasteninginsert 218 coupled to a first panel and elongated insert 716 coupled toa second panel, with a fastener coupling the fastening insert 218 to theelongated insert 716. Again, in some implementations, a T-joint can beformed via the fastening insert 1318 coupled to a first panel and theelongated insert 916 coupled to a second panel, with a fastener couplingthe elongated insert 916 and the fastening insert 1318.

In some implementations, co-planar joints of panel assemblies can beformed via fastening insert 816 coupled to a first panel and elongatedinsert 916 coupled to a second panel, with a fastener coupling theelongated insert 916 and the fastening insert 816. Again, the angularorientations of the insert aperture 941 and the insert aperture 841 canadvantageously be sized and shaped to align in order to facilitatecoupling capabilities in locations where access is limited and strengthcapabilities of the joint are compromised.

The various implementations described herein can be combined to providefurther implementations. The modularity of the various implementationsof the panel assemblies described herein can facilitate use thereof in awide variety of applications. For instance, the panel assemblies andcomponents thereof can be applied to rapidly construct various interiorcomponents of aircrafts, for example, floor panels, stowage compartmentpanels, etc. In other applications, the panel assemblies and componentsthereof can be used to construct enclosures by assembling a plurality ofpanel assemblies according to the various implementations of the panelassemblies described herein in a relatively cost-effective and quickmanner. Such enclosures can, for example, be used in a wide variety ofapplications, such as for rapid deployment shelters, temporaryconstruction sites, etc. For instance, a rapid deployment shelter can beconstructed by assembling back, sides, front, and top wall structures.Each wall structure, i.e., back, sides, front, and top can be coupled toeach other via the various implementations of the elongated inserts,fasteners, fastening inserts, etc., described herein. Moreover, thevarious implementations of the panel assemblies and components thereofdescribed herein can enable rapid deployment and field use by enablingease of portability. For instance, having the various implementations ofelongated inserts (e.g., elongated inserts 16, 216 a, 216 b, 316, 416,516, 616, 716, 816, 916, 1016, etc.) and fastening inserts (e.g.,fastening inserts 18, 118, 218 a, 218 b, 318, 1118, 1218, 1318, 1418,1518, 1618, etc.) configured to be installed flush on or in the variouspanels (e.g., panels 12, 14, 212, 214, 312, 314, etc.) can allow thevarious panels to be efficiently and compactly stacked without damage tothe elongated inserts, fastening inserts, or other adjoining hardware,during transportation to the deployment sites.

These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of theabove-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, theterms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should beconstrued to include all possible embodiments along with the full scopeof equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, theclaims are not limited by the disclosure.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An elongated insert capable of couplingpanels of an aircraft panel assembly, the elongated insert comprising: atop side; a single web extending downwardly from the top side andextending to at least one peripheral edge of the top side, the singleweb including a pair of solid, cylindrical bosses that protrudeoutwardly therefrom; and a coupling side that is arranged to bepositioned adjacent to a proximal side of one of the panels of theaircraft panel assembly.
 2. The elongated insert of claim 1 wherein afirst one of the pair of solid cylindrical bosses protrudes outwardlyfrom the single web in a first direction and a second one of the pair ofsolid cylindrical bosses protrudes outwardly from the single web in asecond direction, the second direction being opposite of the firstdirection.
 3. The elongated insert of claim 1 wherein the top sideincludes a pair of apertures that extend therethrough, the aperturessized and shaped to allow potting compound to flow around a main body ofthe elongated insert.
 4. The elongated insert of claim 1 wherein thecoupling side includes an aperture that partially extends through thecoupling side, the aperture sized and shaped to coupleably receive afastener that is sized and shaped to couple the panels of the aircraftpanel assembly.
 5. The elongated insert of claim 1, further comprising:a bottom side having a surface area, wherein a surface area of the topside is larger than a surface area of the bottom side.
 6. The elongatedinsert of claim 1, further comprising: one or more recesses which definea flow region around a main body of the elongated insert.
 7. Theelongated insert of claim 1, further comprising: flow regions around amain body of the elongated insert that are sized and shaped to receivepotting compound which flows around the elongated insert, a flow of thepotting compound around the main body coupling the elongated insert toone of the panels.
 8. An elongated insert configured to be received in apanel of an aircraft panel assembly, the elongated insert comprising: atop side, the top side having a first surface area; a bottom side, thebottom side having a second surface area, the second surface area beingless than the first surface area; a coupling side; and a web spanningthe top side and the bottom side, the web extending to peripheral edgesof the top side and the bottom side.
 9. The elongated insert of claim 8wherein the web includes a pair of solid, cylindrical bosses thatprotrude outwardly therefrom.
 10. The elongated insert of claim 9wherein a first one of the pair of solid cylindrical bosses protrudesoutwardly from the web in a first direction and a second one of the pairof solid cylindrical bosses protrudes outwardly from the web in a seconddirection, the second direction being opposite of the first direction.11. A fastening insert capable of coupling panels of an aircraft panelassembly, the fastening insert comprising a cap portion having a lowersurface and a fastener aperture; a shaft portion having a threadedinsert aperture, the fastener aperture and the threaded insert aperturedefining a fastener receiving aperture which is sized and shaped tocoupleably receive a fastener that is configured to couple the panelstogether via the fastening insert; and one or more gussets that extendsbetween an outer surface of the shaft portion and the lower surface ofthe cap portion.
 12. The fastening insert of claim 11, furthercomprising: one or more bosses protruding outwardly from the lowersurface.
 13. The fastening insert of claim 11 wherein the threadedinsert aperture is sized and shaped to receive a threaded insert whichreceives the fastener that couples the panels together.
 14. Thefastening insert of claim 11 wherein the fastener receiving aperture islocated at an offset relative to a central axis of the fastening insert.15. The fastening insert of claim 11 wherein the cap portion includes apair of openings disposed around a periphery of the cap portion, thepair of openings sized and shaped to receive a potting compound whichflows one of the panels to bond the fastening insert received in one ofthe panels of the aircraft panel assembly.